Name:
Kristi Jenkins Lowe
Occupation:
Corporate Events & Client Hospitality Management (semi-retired)
When did you start WOTOWN?
June 2021
What sports or fitness things did you do before WOTOWN?
From my earliest career, the physical demands of executing large conferences and events kept me functionally fit. However, at age 50 and in more of management role, I realized that I was losing the stamina and strength to be at top of my game over multiple 16+ hour days. Luckily, Melissa Archer was in my circle of acquaintances and was willing to work with me one-to-one.
How did you find WOTOWN? What was your first workout?
While I have no memory of my first workout session … my story of coming to WOTOWN underscores all Tres & Erin try to accomplish with a community! When Melissa took a full-time job, my first employer and mentor Carolyn Counts was an active ‘senior’ member and she encouraged me to call ‘Tres’ and see if I could find a good fit. When I was in for my ‘No Sweat’ – I ran into Chuck & Misty – figured out who ‘Tres’ was – and then realized Erin! But – the big God-thing was – I was randomly assigned to Presley and all I had was an email named Presley Mathews. I walk in for my first session and Presley greets me with “Ms. Kristi – you gave me a wedding gift! I’m Morgan Riddlesperger’s wife!” Yes – I’m an Enon member and have known Morgan since a toddler.
What’s your “why” for working out?
The one major concept is FUNCTIONAL FITNESS but that involves so much! The physical strength and stamina for everyday living; combating the loss of balance and flexibility that comes with aging; maintaining great heart and vascular health; and, importantly, the mental and emotional benefits of scheduled activity and relationship with Presley.
What’s your favorite thing about WOTOWN?
Even though I do personal training, the community that is WOTOWN and a shared experience via our virtual community! As a Morris-inian (MJHS Class of 1983) I have some type direct connection to a good number of members and coaches … and one-degree of separation with many others!
What are your hobbies?
Now in semi-retirement, I can actually seek out some things! My hubby and I both traveled for work constantly, so we found enjoyment in the thinking time of cutting our 7 acres of grass! Seriously, I have sang in the choir at Enon for years and don’t go anywhere without my Kindle!
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
In the late 80s, I sold AT&T business telephone systems in the eastern half of Mississippi, primarily chicken plants, catfish farms, farm centers and dealerships. I’m pretty sure I got the job because I could operate a tractor, had more than one pair of boots … and could ‘bless their heart’ in the proper tone for any situation!
What PRs or accomplishments (fitness-related) are you most proud of?
Hands-down … Walking up Machu Picchu in November 2019 with my much younger – and fitter – work team! More recently – Presley’s alternate month challenges – the non-stop 50 chest flies and 5-minute shuttle runs!
What’s on your fitness bucket list?
Avoidance List … loss of stamina, avoid a knee replacement, back surgery!
What’s on your general bucket list?
Visit the Holy Land – safely – in my lifetime
What advice do you have for people new to WOTOWN?
Understand that classes are made up of all type skills levels and don’t be intimidated – the person next to you was probably new a month ago! And, importantly, ‘show and do something is better than not showing up i.e. doing nothing’!
Anything else you’d like to mention?
My biggest reminder is that fitness journey’s look different – goals & expectations, ability, body type & weight, etc. But we all share a desire to take care of ourselves so that we can live with purpose, love richly, and serve our God in all things.